REVIEW: Messenger Bag by DIRECT ACTION

Gone are the days when courier bags were only used for transporting mail. Nowadays, these bags are used to carry a laptop, a gun, and other equipment. The best tactical messenger bag has multiple compartments and a functional MOLLE/PALS system for carrying many items. One of the advantages of messenger bags is quick access to essential tools. SPARTANAT has taken a closer look at the newly optimized version of the Messenger Bag from DIRECT ACTION.

The Messenger Bag has a compact size of 350 x 260 x 130 mm and a capacity of 10 liters. When empty, the bag weighs around 1400 grams. Equipped with a range of spacious pockets, it allows the user for easy customization and personalization.

DIRECT ACTION has made the Messenger Bag from 500D Cordura® with a water-repellent coating. The seams are well sewn overall, and not a single thread is sticking out. In our opinion, the craftsmanship is excellent.

The zippers are of high quality from YKK®. The Messenger Bag features two-way zippers and one-way zippers.

For the flap cover and adjustable shoulder strap, DIRECT ACTION uses high-quality buckles and clips from Duraflex®/WooJin. They are durable and work well.

The entire front of the Messenger Bag and the right outer pocket are equipped with the laser-cut MOLLE/PALS system, allowing for additional pouch attachment.

In the middle of the flap is a 158 x 101 mm Velcro area for patches and ID markings. The Velcro area also features a laser-cut MOLLE/PALS system for attaching additional pouches. The new DIRECT ACTION logo is located under the Velcro area.

Behind the Velcro area on the flap is a large, flat pocket. Access is through a YKK® one-way zipper.

On top of the Messenger Bag is a carrying handle with two D-rings. The flap covers the main compartment completely on both sides (left and right), ensuring optimal protection of your belongings.

Another plus point is the Shock Cord cord on the reinforced bottom of the Messenger Bag. This allows for carrying an external jacket, for example. The Shock Cord is extremely flexible and long enough.

The included waist strap is attached to the D-ring attachment points on both sides of the back.

The adjustable 10mm wide waist strap helps keep the bag in place during movement.

On the body side, there is a flat zipper pocket where the detachable waist strap and shoulder strap can be stored. Access is through a YKK® one-way zipper.

For a comfortable wearing experience, an adjustable 1200 mm long and 50 mm wide shoulder strap with non-slip and easy to open padding provides comfort.

On the left side, the Messenger Bag provides space for a small water bottle. To secure the bottle, a removable Velcro strap is included. Unfortunately, a 1-liter Nalgene bottle does not fit.

On the right side, there is a pocket with laser-cut MOLLE. This pocket includes a mesh compartment, another flexible compartment, and a keychain. This pocket can be opened two-thirds of the way with a YKK® double zipper.

Both exterior pockets have drainage eyelets at the bottom. Hopefully, no water gets in...

The Messenger Bag is secured with a large flap. Alternatively, the bag can be closed with two Duraflex®/WooJin buckles or Velcro.

The Velcro areas allow for quick access to the contents of the bag.

Large zippered pocket with a transparent window for cards and documents on the back of the lid flap.

Upon opening the lid flap, we discover two exterior pockets with laser-cut MOLLE/PALS system. These pockets are equipped with multiple compartments for a mobile phone, pens, and other items. A Velcro area and a keychain can also be found inside.

Both pockets are opened with a YKK® double zipper. The right pocket can be fully opened and is adjustable with a paracord. The left pocket can only be opened two-thirds of the way.

The main compartment is fully lined with Velcro, allowing for additional equipment to be stored. The user can customize and personalize the bag to their needs and preferences. The padded sleeve in the main compartment fully protects a laptop (up to 13"), tablet, or other electronic devices.

CONCLUSION: The Messenger Bag from DIRECT ACTION has all the advantages that a bag needs in rough operational environments. It is rugged, lightweight, well-crafted, flexible, discreet, and customizable.

The MESSENGER BAG is available directly from DIRECT ACTION for 109 EUR in the colors black, urban gray, coyote brown, olive, and gray, or from any retailer carrying DIRECT ACTION products.

DIRECT ACTION Online